Bini

I use the word 'miracle' from time to time but don't really believe in them. I do believe everything happens for a reason, as in, a chain of events sets things off in motion. I don't think everything that happens necessarily has 'meaning' though - sometimes things happen at the same time or occur similarly - but have no relation. Some things really are just coincidence.

Hmm. I don't really have a voice that whispers to me inside my head. But whenever I'm in a pickle or need guidance, my husband, is always my first go-to-person. Otherwise, I just listen to my own intuition on stuff, like my gut.

Sumiko, follow what your heart tells you. And by that, I mean the harmony and wholesomeness you feel inside, won't lead you astray. Saying this, your marital situation does place a damper on your membership within the Church, as in, your participation will be limited. As for feeling welcomed and accepted, you'll always find people that taste like vinegar, no matter where you go. So surround yourself by the positives and brush the negatives off your shoulder. Good luck! This forum is a great place to learn/re-learn about Mormonism. We are also a forum of many backgrounds, not all LDS, and with diverse views and opinions.

You must understand that for some, especially those born and raised into a faith, who later abandon their religion due to X, may feel deceived. I think this is how many ex-Mormons (maybe other Christians) feel. That's likely where the hard feelings come from.

BLR is basically a god on YouTube. The execution of The Walking Dead is genius.

My experience as a Mormon (religious person) was that nones were more tolerant and less offended, in comparison to those of other organised religions or faiths. Like, I was always geared up to defend myself against the "none believers" but turned out that it was usually inactive members or those of other denominations that were quick to find fault within the church. So I guess my experience is different.

Avengers: Age of Ultron It was okay. Not bad but not good. Just okay. I'd give it a 2/5. It just didn't satisfy me like the previous one. I might be being picky but I felt the movie never met a real high point and was on a constant overload of action packed BOOMS and KA POWS! I felt the movie sorely missed on telling the story and got carried away with special effects and fight sequences. (Though, CGI and fights executed well.) I didn't feel any real connection to any character this go around. Was ultimately disappointed with the "boss fight" and the ending was, meh, subpar.

You might not need friends for reliance but rather to give charity. Humility and humanity makes one stronger.

I like the avoidance option. Or at least, keep interaction minimal and let the side comments go in one ear and out the other.

I can relate to some. I see where it's going.

Agree with While You Were Sleeping. Such a cute movie. They just don't make movies like that anymore.

You say you cry over no reason. I think the correction is: there is plenty to cry over if what you say is true. I don't doubt you're dealing with some kind of depression due to your marital circumstances. And I don't doubt your husband also suffers from something that keeps him disconnected and uninterested. The saddest part, in my opinion, is the seemingly lack of nurture your husband has when it comes to the children he agreed to bring into this world. Indeed, how heart breaking. I would suggest opening up to someone who is unbiased and can help give some sound advice. Parents and or family is likely not the right outlet for this, though, they may mean well. Would you consider talking to a counselor and confiding your feelings and concerns? If your husband rejects couple counseling, at least, give it a shot yourself. Lastly, how does your husband respond when you dote on him? When you embrace him, kiss him, tell him you love him?

I've always had a slight fascination with the Duggars. For many different reasons. Haven't read the article but I guess this just goes to show that even the seemingly happiest families have skeletons in their closets.

^ My best friend is the easiest going person I know. By that I mean she accepts reality for what it is, and yet, continues to give and give and give. She is a giver by nature and finds joy in giving, even when others keep taking. I've known her since I was thirteen and I've seen her upset only a handful of times. She married a man that is aggressive, he speaks aggressively, his body language is intimidating, though all in all a good guy. That said, he is a taker. He is perfectly fine with my bestie taking on all the house chores, bills, and trying to juggle school, without him lifting a finger. My bestie is not bothered by taking on these responsibilities (so she says). She is eager to please and never has anything poorly to say about her husband. This might seem like a crazy dysfunctional marriage but they both say they're happy, even if responsibilities aren't balanced. I see their relationship as one spouse constantly giving and the other spouse constantly taking, and yet, they stay married and seem to be fond of each other. So personality and one's tolerance plays a part, too. I guess my point being, they don't particularly "work" at marriage, one is just happy to keep giving and one is just happy to keep taking, and they've been married for about 10 years now.

Alright, so I'm finishing off The Witcher trilogy and I've decided that I would adore a film based on the series. I think Geralt of Rivia is the kind of hero we don't see much of but need to see more of.

Our last house was like this. The laundry room was downstairs (basement actually) and was massive. Took up half the basement but was in its own room.

Goodness, can't believe people are actually pushing back on what I suggested. I mention shelters because this is what I choose to do first and items are used right away and don't go through a resell process like DI and Salvation, etc. Even surplus of hygienic/toiletries like feminine pads and whatnot are taken. So yes, I would recommend families that are cleaning house to call their local shelter or just turn up and see what they can drop off - items will be used by those there.

I don't know all the dealings that DI and the like go through but I know women's/children's battered shelters take most anything useful. There is no reselling, it is used right away. So that is why.

Before donating to DI or the like, I'd see what your local women's and children shelters need.

Rousey is amazing. Vort, what do you do in your wood shop? Working with his hands doing woodwork is a real fancy for my dad - when he's got the time. Christmas is always fun because he makes his gifts for us kids, but in recent years, has been focusing more on making fun things for the grandkids.

Quick side question. Are commandments the same as doctrine? I understand that LDS gospel doctrine does not change.

We have a decent sized washer/dryer room. I'm not a specialist on appliances but I've heard that the stackable ones don't perform as well. But if that's all the room you've got - you work with what you have. We got front loading and I prefer it because I'm so tiny, I can barely reach down into the barrel of top loading. Eowyn, I have become way more practical in gifts in the last 6 years since being married, so I'm totally with you! My hand vacuum was my favourite Xmas gift last year...

In LDS perspective what is the difference between old prophets and new prophets? Do Mormons believe that Joseph Smith was the first prophet of God? Or, just one of many prophets of God, like Moses or Nephi (he was a prophet, right?)? I know that other Christian groups acknowledge old prophets in the Bible and was just wondering if LDS gospel sees them as other religious groups? Hope that all made sense.

*male

I would assume that's not statistically the norm. In the grand scheme of things, just seems unnecessary. I mean, the church sends out female missionaries alone without make company. I'd think they'd be more of a direct target.